Restrictions on school phone use approved by California lawmakers

California lawmakers have approved school cellphone restrictions in an effort to improve student focus and reduce distractions in the classroom. At Dymally High School in South Los Angeles, Principal Darvina Bradley credits the school’s cellphone ban for an increase in test scores, a decrease in fights, and a more engaging learning environment for students.

The Phone-Free Schools Act, introduced by Assemblyman Josh Hoover (R-Folsom), received bipartisan support and requires all public schools to create a policy by July 1, 2026, limiting or prohibiting smartphones during the school day. This move aims to address the mental health, scholastic, and social risks associated with excessive phone use in classrooms.

Governor Gavin Newsom is expected to sign the legislation, emphasizing the importance of educators taking action to restrict phone usage. California would become the fifth state to mandate school districts to limit students’ access to phones, joining Indiana, Minnesota, Ohio, and Virginia.

The bill allows schools to implement enforcement mechanisms like in-class lockers and individual locking pouches to limit smartphone access. However, exceptions are made for situations such as individualized instruction, medical necessity, and emergencies, with the final decision resting with teachers and administrators.

Los Angeles Unified is taking proactive steps to implement a full-day ban on cellphones starting in January, with the drafting of rules already underway. While some schools in Los Angeles have already instituted bans, enforcement can be challenging, as students find ways to circumvent the rules.

Dymally High School

Implementing the cellphone ban at Dymally High School was a challenging process, but Principal Darvina Bradley and her team persevered. By using magnetic Yondr pouches that lock students’ phones during school hours, they were able to create a distraction-free learning environment.

While some students may try to find ways around the ban, such as swapping their phones out of the pouches, the school remains committed to enforcing the policy to ensure student safety and focus in the classroom.

Dorsey Senior High

At Dorsey Senior High, Principal Orlando Johnson and his team implemented classroom phone lockers as a compromise with students. This approach allows students to have access to their phones during non-classroom hours while minimizing distractions during instruction.

Enforcement of the ban varies from teacher to teacher, but classrooms that strictly adhere to the policy have seen improved student engagement and focus. By pairing the ban with culturally relevant lessons, teachers can ensure that students remain engaged in their learning.

Girls Academic Leadership Academy

The Girls Academic Leadership Academy in Mid-City has had a longstanding cellphone ban in place since its inception. Principal Liz Ackerman-Hicks emphasizes the importance of the ban for the mental health and well-being of teenage girls, who are more susceptible to cyberbullying and social media pressures.

While challenges remain, such as handling phone use during emergencies, the school has seen positive results in minimizing distractions and promoting a more focused learning environment. Students are encouraged to use their phones for educational purposes only, further enhancing the educational experience.

As schools across California work towards implementing cellphone restrictions, it is essential for educators to prioritize student well-being and academic success by creating phone-free learning environments.